The Hivites in Gibeon had made peace with Israel and were under Israel’s protection. This did not please their neighbors to the south. Five kings of the Amorites under the leadership of the king of Jerusalem now camped before Gibeon with their armies to make war against it. The Gibeonites appealed to Joshua for help.

Joshua and Israel’s warriors marched through the night to come to Gibeon’s rescue. The Lord encouraged them to fight, showing that He was with them by casting down great hailstones upon the enemy troops. His aim is excellent! More enemy soldiers died from the hailstones than from Israel’s weapons. Yet there was danger that some might get away. The kings had taken refuge in a large cave at Makkedah, and Joshua had his men seal up the entrance with huge stones while continuing to chase the enemy.

The Lord had promised Joshua victory. It seemed the day would not be long enough for a complete victory. In faith, Joshua then commanded the sun and the moon to stand still where they were until the nation had avenged themselves on their enemies! This unique event is attested to elsewhere as well.

God is still for His people, even when they have failed Him. And “if God is for us, who can be against us?” we read in Romans 8:31. He is totally faithful to His Word and promises! God still listens to the voice of a man, especially to our risen Lord in the glory.